7 Natural Pantry Solutions That Can Keep You Smiling

When we’re feeling in need of a boost, we’ve been taught to turn to coffee or head for the medicine cabinet. However, did you know that you could go to your pantry instead? Whether you’re feeling sluggish, stressed, tired or nauseous, we have some options you might try the next time you’re feeling off.

It is important to note, though, that while many herbs, spices, and teas are safe to consume, drinking too much in a day may be harmful. Always check with your doctor first before adding any of the following herbs to your everyday routine. It is also essential to obtain them from trustworthy sources as they may contain unhealthy additives.

Ginger
Used to flavor your stir fry and ease an upset stomach may also:

• Improve brain function
• Provide antioxidant support
• Reduce anxiety

Brew a Ginger Tonic to drink hot or cold. Be sure to use less than four grams to avoid irritating your stomach.

Maca Root
Becoming increasingly popular as it may promote:

• Positive moods
• Reduce depression and blood pressure
• Increase energy

Add about 3.3 grams of maca root to a daily smoothie, coffee or hot chocolate for 8-14 weeks. Do not use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a thyroid problem.

Matcha
Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients, matcha may increase the brain’s alpha frequency without causing drowsiness. The benefits can increase:

• Encourage a positive mood
• Promote relaxation and sustained energy

Brew a cup of matcha tea bags or use matcha powder. You may feel the effects within the hour because the caffeine contained in it is very strong. Stick to 1-2 cups a day.

Reishi Mushrooms
Known to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety and anti-depressant qualities, reishi mushrooms are also a great way to help destress. Magic Reishi mushroom may also promote better sleep, leaving you more rested and focused throughout your day. The benefits may include:

• More restful sleep and calming
• Antidepressant and anti-anxiety

Use a spoonful of reishi mushroom powder to make a warm, tonic or tea. Avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding, need surgery, or have blood problems. They may also irritate your stomach.

Apple Cider Vinegar
More than an ingredient in a vinaigrette, apple cider vinegar can potentially lower blood sugar levels. Apple cider vinegar may:

• Reduce blood sugar
• Sustain consistent energy levels
• Promote overall health

Mix apple cider vinegar into warm or cold water for a tonic or tea. You may feel the effects in about 1 ½ hours after drinking 1gram. Large amounts may cause tooth enamel damage and throat or digestive discomfort.

Turmeric 
Stands up to its popularity. Tumeric is linked to the treatment of anxiety and depression. It may be as effective as Prozac with far fewer side effects. It may also help:

• Boost serotonin levels
• Relieves Anxiety and Depress
• As Effective as Anti-Depressants

If you start drinking a Turmeric Tonic, results may not be immediate. You could start feeling a difference after drinking 1000 milligrams daily for six weeks. Avoid higher doses, which may cause kidney stones.

Ashwagandha
Has been shown to help our bodies:

• Reduce stress hormones
• Relieve anxiety
• Prevent fatigue

Sipping an Ashwagandha Tonic may encourage more sleep and reduced stress. You could begin to feel the effects after drinking two cups with 150 milligrams a day for a month. Avoid when pregnant.

These are all amazing stress-fighting tonics, which one are you most excited to try first?

For Further Reading
7 Everyday Tonics that Help Your Body Adjust to Stress and Anxiety